Involuntary movement (Spinal reflex)

Question 1

Define a unconscious response

Answer 1

An involuntary & automatic action performed by the body independent of the brain (A physiological response of the ANS and spinal cord , Parasympathetic & sympathetic nervous system)

Question 2

Define a spinal reflex

Answer 2

An unconscious response to sensory stimuli initiated by interneurons in the spinal cord independently of the brain

Question 3

Does anything continue to the brain after the motor movement?

Answer 3

Yes, sensory neural impulses continue to the brain after the spinal reflex is initiated, and pain is not felt until the neural impulse reaches the brain (The motor movement has occurred before this)

Question 4

Explain the first step of a spinal reflex

Answer 4

Sensory stimuli is detected by sensory receptors

Question 5

Explain the second step of a spinal reflex

Answer 5

The sensory neurons transmit the neural impulse along afferent pathways to the spinal cord

Question 6

Explain the third step of a spinal reflex

Answer 6

The interneurons within the spinal cord relay this neural impulse to motor neurons

Question 7

Explain the fourth step of a spinal reflex

Answer 7

The motor neurons transmit the neural impulse along a efferent pathway to the hand, causing a withdrawal reflex initiated before pain can be felt.

Question 8

Explain the fifth step of a spinal reflex

Answer 8

The neural impulse is received in the brain via afferent tracts in the spinal cord and processes the sensory neural impulse and interprets the pain